Saskatchewan adds private stores to liquor mix; two in Saskatoon, one in Regina

REGINA – Saskatchewan is adding three private liquor stores to the retail mix.

Donna Harpauer, minister responsible the Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority, says two stores will be added in Saskatoon and one in Regina.

Harpauer says the SLGA has been doing a good job managing increased volumes, but there are neighbourhoods that are still underserved.

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The announcement comes after Premier Brad Wall hinted last month that new liquor stores were needed because of population growth, and suggested they could be private.

There are some private franchises in Saskatchewan, but only in rural communities where the SLGA has allowed businesses to sell alcohol on its behalf.

The province says it’s taking proposals for the new stores and the final choices are expected by early spring.